Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Wood.
Ashley, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Ashley Wood, I am a U.S. Army veteran, mother, and 2-time breast cancer survivor. I have always had a passion for cosmetology, and after I retired from the Army, I knew that it was time to start pursuing my passion with starting my own business and becoming a licensed cosmetologist.
I was diagnosed with Stage 3C breast cancer in 2017, and after being in remission for three years, I discovered that the cancer had come back as stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. I experienced chemotherapy, radiation, and a bilateral mastectomy. During my time of actively going though chemo, many hair stylists reached out to me and would surprise me with wigs, and hair extensions. I always knew that I wanted to give back and now is my chance to be a blessing to someone else.
I started Ashley Lashae Hair Boutique a year ago, and we sell Luxury 12A mink Brazilian Bundles. We also offer natural hair care, microlinks, tape-ins, quick weaves, Itips, and more.
I truly believe in my brand because I am dedicated to giving the best customer service possible. I believe everyone should live in luxury, without breaking the bank.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There has been many struggles along the way. I’m a single mother, and I am constantly staying on top of my health to ensure the cancer doesn’t come back. I am also currently in cosmetology school. Being in school is very time-consuming but it’s a sacrifice that I’m willing to make.
Also, starting a business has been very challenging. I am learning so much as I continue to grow, and expand.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Ashley Lashae Hair Boutique is a luxury hair business that provides everything from hair extensions to services such as silk press, microlinks and tape ins. We offer all Hair textures, in different lengths. I am known for my ability to provide a silk press without damaging the hair, Haircutting, hair coloring, and being able to manage all hair textures.
I am most proud of the quality of the extensions that I sell. I waited a year and went through multiple vendors to find hair that I felt would be of great quality for my customers.
What sets me apart from other brands and hair stylist is that I’m not in this business just for the money. I genuinely love being in the hair industry and most importantly because I want to be able to give back to women who have dealt with some of the same issues that I’ve dealt with. I have so many upcoming business opportunities that will allow me to help people that are dealing with cancer, alopecia and any form of hair loss.
I want for readers to know that even though my business is still fairly new and growing, I am dedicated to providing the best service possible, and will constantly keep reinventing myself to be the best cosmetologist/business owner possible.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice is to start when you’re ready. People have told me my entire life that I should have went into the beauty industry. It wasn’t until I turned 30 that I realized that this was it. We tend to let society and even social media rush us into thinking that everything has to happen overnight, and that’s not the case. Do what works for you, stay consistent, be resilient, keep positive people around you, and always keep God first in everything!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alhboutique.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/ashleylashae_hair
- Other: www.Instagram.com/ashleylashae_
Image Credits:
Photographer: Bdot Wilkins MUA: makeupbyBo Hairstylist: Ashley Wood Hair Extensions: Ashley Lashae Hair Boutique Models: Ashley Wood (@ashleylashae_) Zorria Jules (@zoriajules)
